From the Mayor

It’s hard to believe it’s December already. Where has 2018 gone? And where is summer? Hopefully it’s just around the corner, but if the last few weeks of rain are anything to go by, it leaves you wondering what the summer holds. It’s strange to think that this time last year, we were in drought.

Our rivers are wonderful places to visit and enjoy but when we receive extreme rain, as we did, it can cause us a few problems. We are very grateful to the team at Fulton Hogan who were out the other night in the cold and wet managing the traffic at the Waihenga Bridge to ensure drivers stayed safe. I hope people were not too inconvenienced by the flooding. From what I saw on social media, people did a great looking after each other and sharing road closure updates. It showed the wonderful community spirit that exists here in Martinborough. In these situations, at the Council, we do our best to share road closure information during office hours. NZTA takes the lead to provide the most authoritative, up-to-date information on road closures around the clock.

We’re hoping for better weather on 10 December, as that’s the date for the long-awaited opening of the refurbished Town Hall and Waihinga Centre. There’s been a frenzy of activity inside and out as workman finish the cedar panels and the occupants begin to move in. We hope you will be able to join us at 11am for the official opening and blessing of the building, followed by tours and refreshments.

This day is the culmination of so much work from so many people. I won’t try to thank all of them here (see the Waihinga Charitable Trust’s article). I do want to say a whole-hearted thank you to everyone who has been involved in this ambitious and – I accept contentious – project. Without all those who volunteered their time and gave so generously, Martinborough would not have this amazing place to meet, perform and be entertained for years to come.

A few reminders…. Please be aware of these statutory close-down periods for processing for: 1) resource consent and building consent applications, 20 December-10 January; 2) LIMs, 25 Dec-15 January; and 3) liquor licences, 20 December-15 January. During these close-down periods, the application processing clocks stop – there are no working days. Applications can be made during this time, but the application processing clock starts the first day after close-down finishes. This year the Council Offices will be closed from 12pm on Friday 21 December until 8am 3 January.

Also, during December, there is often a lot more recycling than usual so, for those who have kerbside collection, please remember the two-crate limit per household per week (one for glass/plastic/metal and the other for paper/cardboard). Excess recycling can be dropped at any of the district’s recycling or transfer stations free of charge.

Christmas time is a busy time. I hope everyone can take some time to relax and enjoy time with friends and family. Our summer pools are open (except on Christmas Day), free of charge again this season, and our library will run a holiday reading programme to help entertain the children.

Merry Christmas to all.

Viv Napier